Effectiveness of intermittent cash incentives to increase step counts
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2025
Department/School
Psychology
Publication Title
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
Abstract
Only 25% of adults meet both aerobic and strength training recommendations for physical activity. Contingency management interventions have been used to increase physical activity; however, they may be cost prohibitive. Intermittently provided incentives lower costs and are effective for various health behaviors. The present study investigated whether intermittent cash incentives can increase physical activity (step counts). The researchers used a reversal design with 21 participants, and goals during the intervention were set using a percentile schedule. Contingent on meeting goals, participants could earn the opportunity to draw tickets that corresponded to either no cash or cash incentives. Step counts significantly increased from baseline to the intervention phase. Overall, intermittent cash incentives may be a viable and cost-effective approach to promoting health behavior.
Link to Published Version
Recommended Citation
Batchelder, S. R., Devoto, A., & Washington, W. D. (2025). Effectiveness of intermittent cash incentives to increase step counts. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 58(1), 81–90. https://doi.org/10.1002/jaba.2929
Comments
S. R. Batchelder is a faculty member in EMU's Department of Psychology.